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Montreal. East End
Methodist Chruch
East End Methodist Church
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MONTREAL
HISTORICAL SKETCH
1820-1904
1966
1130992
HISTORICAL SKETCH
OF
EAST END METHODIST CHURCH
In the year 1826 a " society " was formed in the " Quebec sub
urbs," as the east end of the city was then called, and in the follow
ing year a small chapel and school house were erected in Gain
street for the accommodation of the congregation and the children
of families living in the neighborhood. This chapel was a frame
building, about forty feet long, by twenty-four wide, and of very
unpretentious appearance, both inside and out. In those days there
were but a few scattered houses to be seen in what is to-day the
thickly populated section of the east end, and cattle grazed in the
fields in which the site of the present East End Church was then
situated. At that time things that seem, to the present generation,
to have " always been," either did not exist or were new to the
people of the time. Old St. James was then (1827) the centre and
spring of Montreal Methodism, and was the only church owned by
the denomination in the city. The Rev. Dr. Stinson was the pastor
of St. James Church, which was situated at the corner of St. James
and St. Francois Xavier streets.
The members of the new "society," as the early communicants
of the Methodist Church called themselves, when they first banded
together as a church, were ministered to partly by the pastors of
" St. James " and partly by local preachers and class leaders. Good
progress was made during the first ten years of the society's exis
tence, so that in 1837 the congregation had increased to such an
extent that it was found necessary to secure a new chapel.
The cause in the east end found a true and generous friend at
this period in Mr. James Ferrier, afterwards the Honorable Senator
Ferrier, who fitted up a neat and commodious place of worship on
Montcalm street near Notre Dame street, which he presented co the
society. The meeting place on Montcalm street is described as a
long upper room in a frame building which stood between Notre
Dame street, the east end of which was called St. Mary's street, and
the river, and was used as a chair factory on week days.
The following entry appeared in the records of the trustees of St.
James's Church on this subject, dated Oct. 24, 1837: "Resolved,
That we cheerfully accept the charge of the building in the Quebec
suburbs, so generously fitted up by Mr. Ferrier, at his own expense,
for the worship of God, and that the thanks of this meeting are
hereby tendered to Mr. Ferrier for this kind and liberal offer."
This place was occupied by the society free of charge until 1845,
when the present church in Lagauchetiere street, corner of Plessis
street was erected.
In this year the present East End Church was opened by the
senior pastor of the circuit, the Rev. Matthew Richey, D.D., and the
Rev. G. H. Davies was placed in charge as the first regular minister
of the new independent church. The total number of communicants
connected with the Methodist body at that time in Montreal was 770,
and those directly connected with the East End Church numbered
about one hundred.
REV. MATTHEW RICHEY, D.D.
REV. G. H. DAVIES,
First Pastor of the E. E. M. Church.
Ths original cost of the East End Church was $23,401.
The Rev. Dr. Richey was a man in every way remarkable; majes
tic in bearing, elegant in manners and undoubtedly one of the mosT
eloquent ministers of his day.
The Rev. Mr. Davies entered the ministry in England in 1842. He
studied for two years at the Richmond Institute, London. England,
was ordained on Nov. 9, 1845, and Montreal was his first station.
He is remembered on account of his great earnestness. He remained
in the active work for forty years, at the end of which time he was
compelled, through bodily infirmity, to ask for superannuation.
The year 1845 marked the beginning of a new era for Methodism
in Montreal. On July 27 the second St. James Street Chruch — the
third building occupied by the congregation — was opened. Upon
their leaving the former church at the corner of St. Francois Xavier
street, almost the entire furnishings were taken out of it and placed
in the new Lagauchetiere street building, which was ready for open
ing a few weeks later. One of the articles taken from the old St.
James Street Church was the pulpit, which was — until recently —
used in the Bast End Church. It must have been built in 1821.
The style of this pulpit was its greatest peculiarity, its height be
ing a remarkable feature. It was once a " double-decker," and
was evidently designed for the use of a preacher and a clerk, a
lesson reader or a precentor. The galleries at one time went all the
way round the interior of the church, but the end over the en
trance to the church has not been used for many years and is now
partitioned off. The seats have the old-fashioned straight backs.
The basement has been altered several times and now affords
abundant accommodation for Sunday-school, Christian Endeavor
meetings and social gatherings.
REV. GEORGE DOUGLAS, LL.D.
REV. E. B. RYCKMAN, D.D.
The church proper, with galleries will seat about seven hundred
persons. It is a large plain-looking stone building, and in its early
days was one of the most comfortable and commodious in the city.
The style of exterior architecture is of the Grecian Doric order, the
front being a reproduction of an ancient Greek temple and is quite
interesting to lovers of antiquity. The entrance, which is on La
gauchetiere street, is ornamented with four large Doric pillars sup
porting an angular pediment. The windows are of the old style,
having small panes.
During the pastorate of the Rev. Mr. Davies, the Rev. Messrs.
Chas. Churchill and Dr. Richey and others often preached in this
church, by exchange of pulpits.
The Rev. (afterwards Dr. Lachlin Taylor, was pastor in 1848.
The Rev. John Jenkins, D.D., LL.D., and the Rev. C. De Wolfe
were pastors at St. James and frequently preached in the East
6
End Church by way of a change, as also did the Rev. Charles
The Rev. G. N. A. F. T. Dickson succeeded to the pastorate in
1851
The late Rev Geo. Douglas, D.D., was pastor of the East End
Methodist Church in the years 1852 and 1853. During the early
years of his ministry he gaveA promise of an exceptionally bril
liant career which promise was more than attained to the high
est rank in' Canadian Methodism. For many years he occupied
the responsible position of Principal of the Montreal Methodist
Theological College, which position he held at the time of his
death. He was succeeded by the Rev. Dr. Shaw. At a meeting
of the International Missionary Union at Clifton Springs, in July,
1893, a correspondent of the New York " Independent," describing
the meeting, says : — " The most memorable event of the meeting
was the sermon on Sunday morning by the Rev. Dr. George Dou
glas, President of the Methodist Theological College, Montreal.
The 'striking contrast between the appearance of the man and the
quality of the sermon, made it more memorable. A man totally
blind, who cannot walk without support, nor stand without
something solid to lean against, with no use of his hands, every
finger being rigidly and unalterably closed, with a linen handker
chief drawn in between the ends of the fingers and the palm of
the right hand and carefully tied to the thumb, that it may be
secure thus, this wonderful man is placed before his audience,
leaning against his pulpit. Slowly and with full voice, he an
nounces his text : " And not only so, but we glory in tribulation
also." " Tribulation," he said " is the law of physical develop
ment."
Referring to the struggle in the birth of Light, he asked,
" Who art thou, oh thou brilliant messenger ? " "I am the cast
away child of the physical tribulation," was the reply." 2. Tri
bulation is the law of all noble achievement. 3. The divine law
is the formation of noblest character. 4. It is the pledge of
divinest sympathy.
" It is impossible to give a comprehensive idea of the beauty
of thought and language in this sermon and address. With a
lofty and comprehensive range of thought the language from be
ginning to end was rapturous with poetic inspiration. It must
have been heard to be appreciated, and to be heard is never to
be forgotten."
The next to follow the Rev. Dr. Douglas was the Rev. Dr. J. H.
Bishop in 1854. In 1854 Methodism in Montreal was divided into
three circuits — centre, east and west.
The division caused trouble, however, owing to the manner in
which the arrangement was carried out by those in authority, and
resulted in driving from the Methodist cause in Montreal a large
percentage of the membership of two congregations. This move
ment seriously affected the East End Church, as 183 members out of
a total of 248, including all the officials but one, withdrew.
The seceders invited the New Connexion Methodist Church to
open a cause in Montreal, with the result that a new church was
built on Panet street for those living in the east end, and another
on Dupre lane for those in the western circuit.
The Rev. J. H. Bishop was appointed to the East End Church
in 1854 and had a rather hard time. One of those who stayed with
the East End Church in its hour of trial was Mr. John Burrell.
The work was maintained and in time recovered from the effects
of the unfortunate circumstances.
Rev. J. Jones took charge in 1855; Rev. G. E. Sanderson in 1856-
57; Rev. E. B. Ryckman in 1858-59; Rev. W. R. Parker in 1860-62.
The Rev. W. R. (now Dr.) Parker, was the first minister to
remain for a term of three years.
During Mr. Parker's time a free school was started to supply the
REV. H. F. BLAND.
REV. JOMiN BORLAND.
needs of those who were unable to afford education for their child
ren even at a low charge. There were no public schools in the east
end at that time and the fees charged by private schools were too
high for many to pay. This school was kept up as a free unde
nominational day school for eight years with an average attendance
of about seventy pupils. The poorest were even supplied with books
free, and in addition to all this the ladies of the church treated the
children to a Christmas dinner fit for the Queen. This speaks
volumes for the East End pioneers, and many men filling positions
of responsibility with success to-day can testify to having received
their education there. The success of the undertaking was largely
due to Miss Jean P. Campbell, who took hold of the work in a mis
sionary spirit and won the lasting gratitude of hundreds of pupils.
The Rev. Henry P. Bland succeeded Dr. Parker in 1863. He was
the first married preacher in charge of the church.* It is worthy
of remark that up to this late date the accounts of the church were
all kept in Halifax currency, or pounds, shillings and pence. The
change to " dollars and cents :' was made in 1864. The first Ladies'
Aid Society in this church was organized during his term.
The Rev. John Borland followed, assisted by the Rev. S. J. Hun
ter. They had Sherbrooke Street Church to look after also. Mr.
Borland was one of the pioneers of Methodism and was a colleague
of the Rev. Wm. Squire in 1841. He held numerous important ap
pointments, including the presidency of the Montreal Conference,
REV. WM. GALBRAITH.
REV. S. J. HUNTER.
chairmanship of several districts and had charge of some of fhe
most influential churches. He was a champion of the cause of the
Oka Indians at the time of their land troubles, many years ago.
The Rev. J. A. Gordon followed him, and he in turn was suc
ceeded by the Rev. Wm. Galbraith, D.D., in 1872 to 1874.
Dr. Galbraith was a theologian and argumentative preacher.
During his postorate Sherbrooke Street Church separated from the
East End and became an independent congregation. It was also
during his term that the present organ was placed in the East End
Church.
Musical matters as well as other branches of the work had been
developing during the flight of years, and the time had come when
a modern organ was thought desirable. The days of the precentor
or man who " witched " the tunes had long since passed. A small
" Alexandre " harmonium had seen service and had been succeeded
by a small pipe organ which was purchased from one of the Baptist
churches. But the latter was now out of date and a committee,
two of whose members were Dr. Robins and Mr. Jos. Bveleigh, was
appointed. The committee found that the organ formerly in use
in the American Presbyterian Church was for sale. That church
once stood at the corner of McGill and S't. James street. The
congregation worshipped in the Normal School building while
their new church on Dorchester street was being built, and the
organ (Warren make) was moved up there. But the new church
had to have a new organ, so the "Warren" Company took the old
one back and sold it to the East End. This was in 1874.
REV. DR. J. B. SAUNDERS.
REV. J. KINES.
The musical service in this church has always been noted for
its heartiness, we have never had a paid singer, nor a Godless
choir. Long before we had an organ Mr. John Mitchell led the
choir acceptably, giving many of his best years, freely to the
work. Mr. Geo. Vary also rendered good service as leader. Pro
fessor Miller, band master of the 60th Rifles, took charge and was
very successful in his training.
Dr. S. P. Robins took charge of the first small organ, giving
his services free. He was succeeded by Mr. Howard Ransom. About
this time the present large pipe organ was installed — then we had
as organist and leaders of the choir, Miss Symmester, Mr. Herbert
Patton, Mr. S. F. Robins, Arthur Corneille, Miss Shuttleworth
(now Mrs. Ahern), who resignd in 1894 and was followed by Miss
10
Bella Tarlton, who, for several years, gave acceptable service.
When she resigned Mrs. Ahern again proved herself a capable
organist and leader. Miss May Gifford, her successor, is well ap
preciated as organist and Mr. R. F. Richardson as leader.
Rev. Dr. D. V. Lucas was pastor in 1878-80 He remained three
years. He was also for a number of years engaged in lecturing on
behalf of the temperance cause. The Rev. Mr. McCann was a
sympathetic and attractive preacher. He was an Irishman and a
brother of Vicar-General McCann, of the Roman Catholic Church
in the diocese of Toronto.
The Rev. Dr. Saunders, after a two years' term, was appointed
principal of Stanstead College. His removal from the East End
REV. ALFRED McCANN.
REV. WM. HALL.
was strongly opposed by the officials and congregation, who desired
his valuable services for another year. He has been called the
"model preacher." The church was first called the "East End"
Methodist Church, during the pastorate of the Rev. Richard Whiting.
The late Rev. Wm. Hall, M.A., an old Montreal boy, was one of
the pastors of this church. While among this people he succeeded
in raising over five hundred dollars for the Protestant Insane Asy
lum at Verdun. He afterwards became Principal of the French
Methodist Institute at Westmount Mr. Hall was the first Select
Councillor of Orient Council, No. 19, R. T. of T., and was the one
who suggested at the formation of the Council in the East End
Church, that it be named "Orient."
11
Rev. F. C. Reynolds was pastor in 1895-96. He remained two
years
The Rev. G. G. Huxtable remained in the East End Methodist
Church for a term of four years He was then the oldest preacher
in the active work of the ministry in the Montreal Conference.
He was born in Devonshire, England, and commenced to preach in
1850, and has been at it constantly with very little rest ever since.
He entered the ministry in the British Wesleyan Conference, and
early in his ministry was appointed to the West India Islands ;
though still retaining his membership with the British Conference.
He has been thirty years in the Canadian field.
REV. G. G. HUXTABLE.
REV. F. C. REYNOLDS.
THE FORMER PASTORS OF THE CHURCH— 1845 to 1904.
In 1845-46, the Rev. Jo<hn Jones was pastor ; in 1846-47, the
Rev J E Sanderson; in 1848, the Rev. Lachland Taylor; in
1849-51 the Rev. G. N. A. F. T. Dickson ; in 1852, the Rev.
George Douglas, D.D.; in 1854, the Rev. J. M. Bishop ; in 1855, the
Rev J Jones in 1856-57, the Rev. J. E. Sanderson ; in 1858-59,
the Rev. E. B. Ryckman, D.D.; in 1860-62, the Rev. W. R. Parker,
D D • in 1863-65, the Rev. H. F. Bland, (father of the Rev. Messrs.
C. and S. Bland), th.3 assistant, the Rev. Thomas Derrick ; in
1866-68, the Revs. John Borland and S. J. Hunter, (brother of the
Rev. Dr. Hunter, of this city); in 1869-71, the Revs. G. A. Gor
don and Alexander Campbell ; in 1872-74, the Rev. Wm. Galbraith,
D.D • in 1875-77, the Rev. Richard Whiting ; in 1878-80, the Rev.
14
D V Lucas, D.D.; in 1881-82, the Rev. J. B. Saunders,, M. D.; in
1883 the Rev. J. M. Hagar, MA.; in 1884-86, the Rev. James
Kines ; in 1887-88, the Rev. Wm. Hall, M.A.; in 1889-91, the Rev.
Alfred McCann; in 1892-94, the Rev. Foster McAmond, B.A.; in
1895-96, the Rev. P. C. Reynolds ; in 1897-1900, the Rev. G. G.
Huxtable ; in 1901-1904, B. W. Crane.
Rev. Edward Ward Crane, was born in the County of Gray, Ont,
of Irish parentage. He was educated at Cobourg Collegiate In
stitute and Victoria College. He entered the ministry of the Metho
dist Church on the Franklin Centre Circuit, Quebec, in 1874, and
was ordained under the presidency of the late Rev. John Borland,
in Brockville, in June, 1878.
REV. E. W. CRANE.
REV. W. H. STEVENS,
Present Pastor.
The Rev. William Hansford Stevens is a son of the late Major
S. A. Stevens of Sherbrooke.
In 1885, and prior to entering the Christian ministry, Mr.
Stevens went to Montreal as assistant-secretary of the Y.M.C.A.
which position he held for three years.
He took his Theological course at the Wesleyan Theological
College and with it a partial course at McGill. He was ordained at
the Cornwall Conference by the Rev. Dr. Jackson, the President of
that year. Previous to his ordination, Mr. Stevens was stationed
on the Calumet and Grenville Circuit for one ye:r and afterwards
15
became the first minister of the Bell Street Church, Ottawa, which
church was established and built while he had charge of the
parish.
Since his ordination, Mr. Stevens has had charge of the follow
ing churches: Hudson, St. Lambert and St. Henry, Montreal. He
came to the East End from Knowlton, Que., where he had been
stationed for the past three years.
HON JAS. FERRIER.
(See Page 3.)
COLONEL JOHN LITTLE.
Ex-Mayor of London, Ont.
THE QUARTERLY BOARDS OF 1855—1886.
The minute-book, beginning on July 31, 1855, and ending Nov.
11, 1886, furnishes the names of those who composed the quarterly
boards, viz.: Messrs. T. D. Hood, A. W. Hood, Angus McPhie,
John Ballard, G. Connolly, Hunter, John Lewis, John McComb.
Ransom, John Ferns, H. Ransom, Cooper, John Burrell, Geo. Daf-
field, Isaac Cleary, Edward Pickup, Fessenden, W. Sweet, John
Millen, Richard Holland, (ex-alderman of this city) ; Robt. Gra
ham, W. A. Johnston, H. Cross, Thos. Cassidy Robt. Nicholson, Jas.
Cassidy, David McMillen, superintendent of the House of Industry,
of this city; S. P. Robins, (Dr.); Edward Thompson, James Mc
Millen, Sergt. -Major Davis, W. H. Rosevear, Samuel Hatton, G. A.
Sargison, John Goodbody, John H. Greliston, Thos. Oosten, sr., J.
16
Severight, Jameson, McGowan, John Palmer, Thos. Crane, Allen.
Henry Vine, Fisher, Robt. Miller, Watson, Matthewson, Rivet,
Ellis Dickson, Young, J. Milne, J. Lund, John Terrill, Sinclair,
Wm. Dawson, Chas. Wilson, Henry Armstrong, P. F. Ferguson,
William Armstrong, Jas. Lord, S. R. Pickards, Francis Corner,
Andrew Irwin, Thos. Boyes, James Murray, John Green, Chas.
Deacon, Arthur Pickard, Wm. Green, Thos. Green, Edward Smith,
Thos. Luscomb, Jas. McCracken, Robt. Clendinneng, George Dea
con, Geo. Dickson, Wm. Cole, John Weldon, A. W. Kneeland, Ph.
D. ; J. R. Johnston, Wm. Smith, James Hamilton Ferns, J. Ren-
nick, Jolm Best, Thos. Fox, James Wynn, Peadon, Jas. Mitchell,
J. Peterson, S. F. Robins, A. McGregor, Joseph Carson, sec. Do
minion Alliance); H. Gillespie ,Wm. Ford, Wm. Strang, T. Hinch-
clif, John Mills, Wm. Gallagher, Johnston Oatey, Ed. Bulmer,
Chas. Cornell, J. H. McComb, jr., Thos Garth-cart, J. L. Palmer, J.
Brown, Clippendale, Davis, Jackson, Skeith, Walter Lancey and
T. McComb, A. Humphreys, Opzoomer, C. Perkins, W. G. Joslin,
W. Hart, Normington, Carpenter, J. Parsons, Wilson, Waldron,
Tucker, A. Lewthwaite, ST., R. Lewthwaite, jr., John Flower. J.
Gilliland, S. R. Burrell, W. Burrell, B. Tarlton, A. Ahern, J. Dick
inson, T. Hutchinson, W. F. Borland Wm. Owers, Bryant, Jones,
Langtree, D. Hurst, G. Lambton, J Musgrove and George Deacon.
Messrs. T. D. Hood and A. W. Hood were circuit stewards and
generous supporters of the East End and other Methodist churches
in the city. One of the latter's sons, A. W. Hood, Jr., became a
Methodist minister and has preached in the East End Church.
Another person to be remembered was the late Mr. John McComb,
who was a member of the quarterly board from some time pre
vious to 1855, and up to 1890, was the one official who did not
join the New Connexion at the time of the secession. He was the
oldest and one of the most respected members of the church, and
was a class leader for very many years.
Another name worthy of special mention is Mr. John Millen,
class leader for -a number of years. Everybody who , knew him
regarded him as a sincere Christian. His prayers and exhorta
tions at the prayer meetings are not forgotten yet. Mr. Millen
was city missionary for a number of years, under the direction of
the Young Men's Christian Association of this city.
The late Mr. Richard Richards, local preacher, must not be
passed without a tribute being paid to his noble example and
abundant works.
The name of the late Miss Catherine Curry who on account of
her many deeds of mercy, was called "the angel of the Quebec Sub
urbs," must not be passed without a tribute being paid to her noble
example and abundant works.
1GA
This record would be incomplete, without rearing to the suc
cession of noble women who have devoted their best services to
the furthering of the interests of this Church. The greater num
ber of whom have passed over to the silent majority.
In early times we had Mrs. John Walker, Mrs. B. Pickup,
Miss C. Currie, Mrs. R. Connolly, Mrs. Greig. The late Mrs. A.
W. Hood, Mrs. W. Peatman, the late Mrs. T. D. Hood, Mrs.
Thomas Little, Miss Little, Mrs. Robt. Nicholson, Mrs. John Mit
chell, Mrs. David McMillen, Mrs. Terrill, Mrs. Weldon, Mrs. John
Ferns, Mrs. John Burrell, for many years treasurer of the Wo
man's Missionary Society ; Mrs. Wm. Armstrong, Mrs. Costen,
Mrs. Ellis, E. Dickson, Mrs. Martinson, Mrs. S. P. Robins, Mrs.
Dickson, Mrs. E. S. Lancey, Mrs. A. G. Pisher and Mrs. John Wil-
MR. AND MRS JOHN McGARRY.
son. Two of those who have lately crossed the line deserve special
notice. Mrs. W. Wilkinson was a noble example of unselfishness,
and was foremost in every good work— prefering the interests of
the East End Church to her own.
Mrs. John McGarry, sincerely regretted, was another self-deny
ing woman who devoted her best services to this church during
16B
a long and active life. .She was present at the last Sunday service
held in the old church, Sept. 25th, 1904. After reaching her home
she took ill and died within a few hours and was buried from the
church she loved so much.
These, with many others, rendered most efficient service to the
church and through it to society.
Among the many who have removed to other fields of labor
whose work and service have been highly appreciated by the con
gregation, we name a few as memory may suggest : Mrs. Jas.
Kyle, Miss Bailard, Miss Rayburn, late Mrs. Smardon, Mrs. John
Little, of London. Mrs. W. H. Kollmyer, Mrs. Gardner, Mrs./ Hen
derson, Mrs. A. W. Hood, Mrs. Kneeland, the Misses Terrill, Mrs.
J. McComb, Mrs. J. H. Ferns, Mrs. Flower, Mrs. Gough, Miss Shen-
nick, Miss Lizzie and Florence Fox, Mrs. Shuttleworth, Mrs.
Ahern, Mrs. Dorion. The Misses Maria and Fanny Mitchell who
excelled in the service of song when the tuning fork was the only
musical instrument we had. Mrs. Geo. Mitchell, Mrs. G. S. Rorke,
Mrs. S. R. Burrell, Miss Lillian Robins, Mrs. W. H. Weldon, the
Misses Wynn, Miss Effie Lamb, Mrs. Fox. Mrs. S. P. Robins has
been president and secretary of the Woman's Missionary Society
for years and has given her services to this church unstintingly.
also Mrs. John Mills.
Formerly the ladies conducted a Dorcas Society, making up
warm garments chiefly for the children of the Sunday school who
were needy. Lately the necessity for this passed, and a committee
of the teachers has been formed who takes charge of this depart
ment of work.
The energy of the ladies then found vent in a wider field, and
they formed the Women's Missionary Society, a branch of the
larger association.
Of the men who have ceased to work here or gone to other
fields of labor we have space to name but a very few. Mr. T. M.
Fox, who has, for a number of years, so successfully filled the
office of trustee steward. Mr. John McGarry, aged 86, the oldest
16c
member now living, who has liberally supported the church
throughout his lifetime, and Mr. Jos. Mills who was ready for any
service. Mr. W. F. Borland— but time would fail to name all
who though absent are ever remembered.
It is not difficult to eulogize the dead or the absent, but when
we single our or praise a few out of a numerous band of earnest
workers the task seems serious.
MRS. T. L. HINCHLIFF.
There are two names deserving of special notice for their more
abundant labors : Mrs. Hinchcliff who, in addition to a general
interest in all departments of church work, has charge of the
primary department, "a work of love," and, .with her band of
helpers, is very successful.
Mrs. Morrison has for years taken charge of the Band of Hope,
giving up much of her time to it besides taking a general interest
in all church work.
16D
The last wedding in the old church was celebrated on the 26th
May, 1904, contracting parties being Mr. Wm. Crussel and Miss
Maggie Wilson.
The last funeral to leave the old church was that of Mrs. John
McGarry, on the 28th September, 1904.
The last Sunday service were held on the 25th September, 1904.
Morning preacher,. Rev. Dr. W. Jackson; evening speakers, Rev.
Dr. Shaw, Rev. Dr. Griffith, Professor Kneeland and Colonel Little,
of London, Ont. The Rev. W. H. Stevens, pastor, in the chair.
The last week night service was conducted in the auditorium
of the church on Wednesday, 28th, 1904. The pastor preached
and at the close of the service the sacrament was administered
to about seventy-five persons — some partaking of it for the first
time.
17
Two other names that must not be omitted in this connection
of those who rendered valuable services to the Church and Sab
bath-school are Mr. A. C. Bennett, who filled the office of secretary
to the Sabbath-school for many years, and was a favorite with all
the scholars— the other is the late Mr. Fred. Bennett, who was
librarian of the school, and also helped in the church choir.
Mrs. Ewan, wife of Dr. Ewan, formerly Miss S. J. Lewth-
waite, and a former member of the church and Epworth League of
Christian Endeavor, and a teacher in the Sunday School, was
with her husband, laboring on the mission field in China, whither
they went in 1897.'
MRS. (DR.) EWAN.
DR. R. B. EWAN.
There are connected with the church the usual Ladies' Aid So
ciety, the Epworth League of Christian Endeavor, and a woman's
missionary society, all of which are doing splendid work.
The Sunday-school has always been one of the leading features
in connection with this church. Its record would make a very in
teresting history of itself.
The earliest records have been lost, but a banner still m pos
session of the school bears the date 1833, from which it is reason
able to suppose that it was organized in that year, if not before,
would appear that the late Dr. Geo. Douglas and Mr. Archie Ben
nett were two of the earliest superintendents of this school,
sessions then were held at 2.30 o'clock on Sunday after-
18
noons. The records extant give the following list of superintendents
for the years indicated:— 1856-57, Mr. Connolly; 1858-64, Mr. Pickup;
1864-65, Mr. Rosevear; 1867-73, Mr. A. W. Hood; 1874-76, Mr. A.
Irwin; 1877-78, Mr. McCracken; 1878-79, Mr. T. B. Johnston; 1879,
Mr. And. Irwin and Hy. Armstrong; 1880, Mr. H. Armstrong; 1881,
Mr. T. McComb; 1882-84, Mr. Jas. Murray; 1885-86, the Rev. Jas.
Kines; 1887-88, Mr. J. H. Perns; 1889, Mr. J. H. Ferns; 1890-93, Mr.
J. Flower; 1894, the Rev. F. McAmmond; 1895-96, Mr. Andrew
Irwin ; from 1897 to 1903, Mr. Geo. Deacon who was ably assisted
by Mr. A. G. E. Ahern.
A morning school was started also in 1856, which was kept up
until 1876 under the following superintendents: Mr. Pickup, D. Mc-
Millen, Mr. Eckroyd, Mr. Vine, Andrew Irwin and Mr. Ellis Dick-
son. The names of Mr. A. C. Bennett as secretary and Mr. Fred.
Bennett librarian, are also tenderly remembered.
Prof. A. W. Kneeland was connected with the old church for
many years. He filled the office of circuit steward in a very able
manner. As a local preacher he frequently preached from the old
pulpit. By request he has written the following, concerning it:
The old pulpit of the East End Methodist Church was the most
quaint and at the same time the most elegant piece of furnishing,
in the building.
Standing high on four beautifully wrought supports, at first
sight it seemed frail and, to a timid man, somewhat dangerous;
but when the man of God had reached his seat within, he found
it his ideal of comfort; and the perfect command of every part of
the large edifice which it afforded, at once destroyed his first
feeling of dislike, while the splendid character of its construction
was soon made manifest by the unyielding firmness of the
structure.
Just as the change of a single word in a passage of Scripture,
often mars the beauty of the whole group, so the slightest change
in the form or position of the old pulpit seemed to mar its beauty
and render it out of harmony with the architecture of the edifice.
Indeed the pulpit seemed designed for the Church and the Church
for the pulpit; so far as form and position were concerned. But
when the past worshippers in the East End Church come to recall
the great and good men who have adorned the old pulpit and who
from it have expounded the word of God to trusting believers,
uttered blessed promises to weary and discouraged pilgrims and
in no uncertain tones declared God's judgments upon the impeni
tent, then a feeling akin both to awe and love is awakened; and to
anyone who would lay ruthless hands upon that sacred thing, one
would be constrained to use words similar to those of the poet —
"Woodman, spare that tree; In youth it sheltered me; And I'll
protect it still."
There is little in the beauty of the design; there is little in the
excellency of the material; but in the sacred memories that cling^
around the old pulpit, there is more than >a passing sentiment.
19
DR. S. P. ROBINS.
It is with much pleasure we refer to the ministry so freely
rendered by Dr. S. P. Robins in the pulpit. His sermons were
replete with good common sense, and were models of Christian
teachings, he was local preacher, class leader and teacher. His
lengthy service to this church is worthy of more than a passing
notice.
As our space in this pamphlet is somewhat limited, we can
but briefly refer to a few of those who belonged to the Church:
The late Robert Nicholson, in his capacity as Trustee Steward,
rendered valuable help to the church for a number of years, and
was one of its large financial supporters. His four sons — George,
Robert, William and John were also connected with the society,
and three of them in turn were Secretary to the Sabbath School.
Mr. James Hamilton Ferns, filled the offices of. Trustee Steward
and Sabbath School Superintendent with acceptance. His uncle,
Mr. John Ferns, was also connected with the church for a number
of years, and was a cheerful contributor to its funds.
Mr. Joseph Eveleigh, who, for a number of years worshipped in
this church, never failed to give tangible evidence of his interest
in the prosperity of its work.
The late Mr. John Ballard was so regular in his attendance,
that his absence for one Sibbath was noticeable by all. He was
never known to be late for any of the Sabbath services, during the
many years he worshipped in the old church.
The late Mr. S. R. Richards was a respected member for many
years. He was a class leader and a local preacher, and member of
the Choir. He was a lover of sacred music.
Mr. John Terrill, sr., for many years the leading tenor singer in
the choir, was also a member of the Quarterly and Trustee
Boards.
Mr. Geo. Robinson, senior member of the firm of Robinson, Little
& Co., of London, Ont., is one of the old members of East End.
He still retains a warm affection for the Old Church and has
shown a pratical appreciation of the effort to erect a new church
edifice.
The late Mr. Thomas Little, was for some time the Librarian in
the Sunday School. In connection with the work in the church he
also gave his support in very many ways. His son, Mr. John
Little, was very popular in the S<abbath School with both teachers
and scholars, during his long term of secretaryship. He, some
years ago, removed to London, Ont., where, some time afterwards
he was elected Mayor of that city. Though separated from the
old church, he still has a warm feeling toward it, and has given
evidence of it by a large contribution toward the nsw church.
The late Mr. John Holland, was long identified with church and
Sunday School. He was regarded in his day as the model Bible
Class Teacher.
21
The late Francis Corner, for many years a teacher in Sabbath
school and also a member of the official Board, is still held in
remembrance by many of those whom he taught in the school.
The late Mr. Cooper, was a staunch supporter of the work car
ried on in this church in his day. He will be remembered by many
of the older members as the man who always came to church —
summer or winter — wearing a large straw hat. He loved fresh air
to such an extent that he kept his bedroom window open at nights
no matter how the mercury stood in the thermometer.
REV. DR. D. V. LUCAS
(See Page 10.)
There are many other names we would like to comment uoon
—viz: the late Mr. John Weldon, father of Mr. W. Weldon, Mana
ger of the Windsor Hotel, the late Messrs. G. Langtry, C. Perkins,
Robert Corner, sr., and Fred Baker; also Mr. Silas Carpenter, who
liberaly supported the cause while connected with it, but our space
forbid us.
22
Mr. John Burrei, still continues his connection with the church,
and take a deep interest in its welfare.
Mr. Thos. McComb, son of the late John McOomb, who is also
a local preacher and has been a very active worker in all depart
ment of this church, should also be mentioned in this sketch, as
he has given valuable time and information in the compilation of
this book. His brother, John McComb, of the firm of Lockerby
and McComb, should also be mentioned as an old and faithful
worker in the old East End.
QUARTERLY AND TRUSTEE BOARDS— 1903-4.
Rev W. H. Stevens, Pastor; W. G. Burrell, Treasurer Trustee
Board; Thos. Cathcart, J. Dickinson, W. Gallagher, J. D. Haines,
Thos. Hutchinson, Thos. L. Hinchliff, Jno. Innes, A. Lewthwaite;
W. D. Lewthwaite, Recording Steward; J. B. Musgrove, Jno. Mc
Clelland, Thos. McComb, Geo. Ransom, Jno. Ransom, R. Reany,
Sec. Trustee Board, and R. F. Richardson.
SUNDAY SCHOOL OFFICERS AN1 TEACHERS- 1903-1904.
The officers and teachers for 1903-1904 were as follows: Super
intendent, Mr. W. G. Burrei; Asst.-Supts., Mr. R. Reany, Mr.
A. G. E. Ahearn. Organist, Miss May Gifford; Secretary, Mr. James
Hutchinson; Asst.-Secretary, Mr. Ed. Jones; Treasurer, Mr. Thos.
Hutchinson; Libre rian, Mr. Thos. L. Hinchliff; Asst.-Librarian,
Mr. W. D. Lewthwaite; Teachers: Rev. W. H. Stevens, Thos.
Hutchinson, R. Reany, W. Shepherd, Chas. Crane, Jos. Jenkins,
Mrs. Crane, Mrs. T. McComb, Mrs. Gray, Mrs. K. Hutchinson, Mrs.
George Hinchliff, Mrs. Piche, Mrs. S'nger, Mrs. Shepherd, Miss M.
Gifford, Miss Lena Gifford, Miss Lula Gifford, Miss Jennie Joslin,
Miss Emma Joslin, Miss Lilly L:n<?field, Miss Annie Lingfield, Miss
G. Ransom, Miss M. Smith Miss May Taylor Miss Marion Christie,
Miss Mary Jenkins, Miss Maggie Wilson, Miss Laura Taylor,
Miss Lydia Taylor, Miss Hattie Wynn, Miss Sarah Jones. Primary
department: Superintendent Mrs. T. L. Hinchliff; assistants, Miss
Lizzie Jenkins, Miss Lottie Lingfield and Miss Ethel Hutchinson.
23
OUR NEW CHURCH.
The plans for the new church, which have been prepared by
Messrs. Pinley & Spence, Architects, show a plain but attractive
exterior of brick and stone. The site is situated at the corner of
Bertrand and DeMontigny Streets, measuring 80 x 63 ft, (one block
north of St. Catherine Street and one block east of Papineau Ave.)
being the centre of present congregation, the main entrances and
principal facade being on Bertrand Street; these entrances lead
directly to the Auditorium and has seating capacity for nearly 400
people. Provision has also been made for future extension by
adding a large gallery around three sides of the Auditorium, which
would add to the seating capacity of the Church by about 250 seats.
The pulpit, choir and organ loft are situated in the centre of
the east side of Church facing the main entrances on Bertrand
Street. The choir is large and roomy having seating capacity for
over 30.
The basement is reached from the north-main entrance on
Bertrand Street, and is exceptionally high and well lighted on three
sides, the plans providing for its being damp proof.
The side entrance on DeMontigny Street leads to the Minister's
Vestry, Choir-room, etc., while the rear of basement containing heat
ing apparatus, kitchen, etc., is reached by a side entrance. kee/Ding
this part of the building entirely separate.
The foundations of Church are now nearly completed, and it
is expected that the roof will be on the building before winter
sets in.
24
THE EPWORTH LEAGUE OF 1904.
Hon. President
President . . .
1st Vice-Pres.
2nd Vice-Pres.
3rd Vice-Pres.
4th Vice-Pres.
Correspondent
Secretary . . .
Organist . . . .
Rev. W. H. Stevens,
J. B. Musgrove.
Mrs. Piche
Miss Jennie Cole
Miss M. Jenkins.
Miss Lilly Lingfield.
Secretary Miss Jennie Cole.
.. Mrs. M. Gifford.
Mrs. R. F. Richardson.
Committees:
Mrs. Morrison, Mrs. K. Hutchinson, Mrs. Gray, Miss L. Jenkins,
Miss Lottie Lingfield, Miss Gifford.
THE CHOIR OF 1904.
Organist . .
Choir Master
.. Miss May Gifford.
Mr. R. F. Richardson.
MEMBERS :
Ladies:
Mrs. J. Blair.
" J. McLelland.
" W. H. Stevens.
" Geo. L. Hinchliff.
Miss Jennie Joslin.
" Emily Joslin.
" Lilly Lingfield.
" Lottie Lingfield.
" Jennie Cole.
" Mary Jenkins.
" Laura Taylor.
" May Taylor.
" Lillie Miller.
Miss Clara Jacobson.
" Harriet Wilson.
" Sarah Jones.
" M. Wilson.
Gentlemen:
Mr. Richard Reany.
R. F. Richard&on.
T. L. Hinchliff.
George Black.
John McLelland.
Wm. Pyke.
Baxter.
Ernest Rodgers.
Montreal. East End Methodist
3483 Church
C22M64 East End Methodist Church
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